Blanding, Utah is a clean, quiet small city located in southeastern Utah. With a population of only 3500, it is still the largest city in San Juan County.
While Blanding has a couple of interesting attractions of its own and a nice recreational area nearby, what really stands out is its proximity to some of the country’s most striking national parks and monuments, while offering friendly and affordable accommodation for those wishing to explore them. The popular destination of Moab to the north is closer to Canyonlands and Arches National Park, but Blanding is central to even more National Parks and Monuments and it has the added benefit of lower accommodation prices.
World famous locations including Monument Valley, Natural Bridges National Monument, Bears Ears National Monuments, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park are all within 1 1/2 hours driving time.
We highly recommend driving out to Natural Bridges National Monument. It is far less crowded than Arches National Park, but with equally breathtaking, albeit different scenery and terrain.
Another great day trip is to Needles Point, possibly one of the most spectacular lookouts in the country. It is well off the beaten path, but the 2 lane road is paved and is only about a 25 minute drive from the main highway. With the beautiful scenery along the way, the drive will go quickly. You may also see some wildlife on or along the road, so to exercise some caution.
While you are in Blanding you will want to be sure and check out the interesting Dinosaur Musuem. Time permitting you will also want to take in Edge of the Cedars and West Water Ruins where you will learn interesting information about the ancient Anasazi and have the opportunity to explore the Five Kiva Pueblo Ruins.
Other local activities include 10-pin bowling (Main and West Centre Street) , the San Juan Cinema (10 South Main Street), Cedar Mesa Pottery Factory Tour (333 South Main Street), and the Nations of the Four Corners Heritage Trails and Village.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of watersports or a picnic at the Recapture Reservoir located just 3 miles north of Blanding on Highway 191.
The town has a very good Visitor Center located on North Grayson Parkway (Route 191) where you can stop in and learn lots more about this great little town and the surrounding attractions.
